How to Fix a Leaking Faucet

Dripping faucets are more than just a noisy nuisance; they are a constant drain on your water bill and a slow-motion wrecking ball for your sink's finish. Most homeowners fear the plumbing under the sink, but the internal mechanisms of a standard faucet are remarkably straightforward. Whether you have a compression, ball, or cartridge faucet, the path to a silent sink remains the same: disassemble, identify the failure, and swap the seal. Done well, this repair restores the firm, smooth operation of your handle and eliminates that maddening rhythmic drip. You don't need a professional plumber to handle this, provided you have the right parts and a methodical approach to taking things apart. Clear your workspace, keep track of your tiny components, and you will be done before the kettle boils.

1. Kill Water Supply First. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they stop. Open the faucet handles to bleed out any remaining pressure and verify the water is off.
2. Expose the Mechanism. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle to reveal the screw underneath. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw and pull the handle straight off the faucet body.
3. Document Before Disassembling. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut or retaining clip holding the stem in place. Once loosened, pull the cartridge or stem straight up and out of the faucet housing.
4. Swap Worn Seals Out. Examine the rubber O-rings and washers for cracking, flattened edges, or mineral buildup. Replace any worn components with matching sizes from your repair kit.
5. Polish the Valve Seat. Look inside the faucet body for any debris or mineral deposits that might prevent a tight seal. Wipe the area clean with a cloth or a non-abrasive scouring pad.
6. Reassemble and Verify. Slide the cartridge back into the housing, tighten the packing nut, and reattach the handle. Turn the water supply back on slowly and check for any immediate leaks.